GTA 5 review round-up: can anyone say a bad word?

It cost a reported £170 million to create, making it the most expensive game in history. So was it all worth it?

As well as some fans apparently taking to social media to boast about their copy of GTA V turning up days early, (which Rockstar are investigating), some lucky reviewers got their hands on the highly-anticipated game.

Grand Theft Auto V officially hits stores tomorrow, so it’s not long for fans to wait now. But have players been impressed so far? Judging by the 5 stars all around, it certainly looks like it.

Here’s what they had to say:

The Independent’s Simon Rice said:

“GTA V has all the elements that stood the series apart from rival titles. From the humour to the gameplay, and the soundtrack to the imaginative missions. When set against the incredible backdrop of Los Santos – a flawless experience ensues.”

Liam Martin at Digital Spy said:

“Rockstar North has clearly listened to criticisms of past games and delivered what's as close to the perfect sandbox as technologically possible.”

Adam Barnes at Now Gamer said:

“GTA 5 is what GTA 4 should’ve been. It’s world isn’t nearly as empty, it’s characters are solid and entertaining and you’ll have as much fun making the most of Los Santos in your own time than you will in the carefully crafted missions.”

Keith Stuart in the Guardian said:

“Rockstar North has built an extraordinary universe that functions not only as an exciting, diverse setting but also as a pulverising, nihilistic satire on western society.”

Dan Silver in the Mirror said:

“It’s surely the best world created by any games developer at any time. It’s not just the eye-watering size and scale, but that way that every square foot feels handcrafted for your enjoyment.”